Temperature controlled and vibrating therapeutic garment

ABSTRACT

A temperature controllable wrap assembly that includes a wrap portion configured to be worn around a user’s body part, and at least a first temperature control module positioned on the wrap portion. The first temperature control module includes a housing, a controllable temperature element, a spreader member and at least a first finger spreader pivotably attached to the spreader member. The lower surface of the spreader member is positioned to contact the user’s body part. The controllable temperature element is configured to transfer thermal energy to an upper surface of the spreader member, and the spreader member is configured to conduct thermal energy to the first finger spreader.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. Application No. 17/554,305,filed Dec. 17, 2021, which claims the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 63/238,354, filed Aug. 30, 2021, U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 63/167,533, filed Mar. 29, 2021, and U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 63/126,954, filed Dec. 17, 2020, the entiretiesof which are incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a therapeutic garment, strap or wrap,and more particularly to a therapeutic garment, strap or wrap thatincludes temperature control and vibration.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

One issue with wraps, garments and straps used for cooling or icing bodyparts that have a curvature to them is maintaining contact with a user’sskin. The undulations or curvature often cause issues. Accordingly, aneed exists for a wrap that provide heat transfer to the user’s bodypart while maintaining good contact with the user’s skin.

The background description disclosed anywhere in this patent applicationincludes information that may be useful in understanding the presentinvention. It is not an admission that any of the information providedherein is prior art or relevant to the presently claimed invention, orthat any publication specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

SUMMARY OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention there isprovided a temperature controllable wrap assembly that includes a wrapportion configured to be worn around a user’s body part, and at least afirst temperature control module positioned on the wrap portion. Thefirst temperature control module includes a housing, a controllabletemperature element, a spreader member and at least a first fingerspreader pivotably attached to the spreader member. A lower surface ofthe spreader member is positioned to contact the user’s body part. Thecontrollable temperature element is configured to transfer thermalenergy to an upper surface of the spreader member and the spreadermember is configured to conduct thermal energy to the first fingerspreader. Preferably, the lower surface of the spreader member iscurved.

In a preferred embodiment, the first finger spreader is pivotablebetween a first position and a second position. In the second position adistal end of the first finger spreader is positioned below the lowersurface of the spreader member. Preferably, the spreader member includesa knuckle portion, the first finger spreader includes a pin portion thatis received in the knuckle portion and the pin portion is rotatablewithin the knuckle portion. In a preferred embodiment, the temperaturecontrollable wrap assembly includes a main control module in electricalcommunication with the first temperature control module (electricalcommunication can be power, data or both). The main control moduleincludes a removable battery, an upper battery opening defined in anupper surface and a lower battery opening defined in a lower surface.The battery includes a lower surface that is exposed through the lowerbattery opening and an upper surface that is exposed through the upperbattery opening. The battery is removable by pushing on the lowersurface of the battery and removing the battery through the uppersurface (or vice versa). Preferably, the battery includes a magnet forholding the battery within the main control module. The main controlmodule includes a battery attracted to the magnet in the battery.

In a preferred embodiment, the temperature controllable wrap assemblyincludes a second temperature control module positioned on the wrapportion that includes a housing, a controllable temperature element, aspreader member and at least a first finger spreader pivotably attachedto the spreader member. A lower surface of the spreader member ispositioned to contact the user’s body part. The controllable temperatureelement is configured to transfer thermal energy to an upper surface ofthe spreader member. The spreader member is configured to conductthermal energy to the first finger spreader. The first finger spreaderof the first temperature control module extends outwardly in a firstdirection and the first finger spreader of the second temperaturecontrol module extends outwardly in a second direction. The firstdirection is generally opposite of the second direction.

In a preferred embodiment, the temperature controllable wrap assemblyincludes first and second vibration devices embedded in the wrapportion. The wrap portion comprises a center axis that extends betweenthe first and second temperature control modules (and through thecentral opening). The first temperature control module is positionedbetween the first vibration device and the center axis and the secondtemperature control module is positioned between the second vibrationdevice and the center axis.

In a preferred embodiment, a thermistor is embedded in the spreadermember. The thermistor is received in a thermistor opening defined inthe upper surface of the spreader member, a groove is defined in theupper surface of the spreader member, and a wire extends from thethermistor and through the groove.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there isprovided a temperature control module that includes a housing, acontrollable temperature element having first and second opposingsurfaces, a heat sink positioned in the housing and in contact with thefirst surface of the controllable temperature element, a fan positionedin the housing and configured to direct heat away from the heat sink, aspreader member and at least a first finger spreader pivotably attachedto the spreader member. The controllable temperature element isconfigured to transfer thermal energy to an upper surface of thespreader member and the spreader member is configured to conduct thermalenergy to the first finger spreader. In a preferred embodiment, thetemperature control module includes a second finger spreader. The firstand second finger spreaders are pivotable with respect to the housingindependently from one another. The spreader member includes first andsecond opposing edges and third and fourth opposing edges. The firstfinger spreader extends outwardly past the first edge and the secondfinger spreader extends outwardly past the third edge such that thefirst and second finger spreaders (or a longitudinally extending axisthereof) are perpendicular to one another.

Preferably, the spreader member includes a knuckle portion. The firstfinger spreader includes a pin portion that is received in the knuckleportion, and the pin portion is rotatable within the knuckle portion.Preferably a thermistor is embedded in the spreader member. Thethermistor is received in a thermistor opening defined in the uppersurface of the spreader member, a groove is defined in the upper surfaceof the spreader member, and a wire extends from the thermistor andthrough the groove.

Described herein is a garment that includes temperature and vibrationtherapy integrated therein. In a preferred embodiment, the garment orwrap portion is stretchable and compresses against the wearer’s skin.For example, see U.S. Pat. Nos. 9,125,442 and 9,414,954, the entiretiesof which are incorporated by reference herein. Any garment, wrap, strapor portion of a garment is within the scope of the present invention.For example, the wrap assembly can be used on a limb or can be a shirt(long sleeve or short sleeve), pants, shorts, tank top, bra, sleeve,sock(s) or the like. In another embodiment, the garment can be acompression wrap or sleeve that surrounds a specific body part (and caninclude straps for securing in place), such as a knee, ankle, shoulderor the like. The compression wrap can also include heating or coolingcapability. For example, see U.S. Pat. Application No. 10,406,024 (the‘024 patent), the entirety of which is incorporated by reference herein.

In a preferred embodiment, the inventive wrap assembly or garmentprovides vibration therapy treatment to the wearer. In a preferredembodiment, the vibration devices, motors or unit cells used in thegarment generate a vibration with an amplitude smaller than 20 mm (e.g.,0.2 mm to 20 mm). It will be appreciated that the vibration can provideblood flow and oxygen increases in the wearer’s body. These vibrationdevices are small enough that they can be integrated into wearables,fabrics, garments and pieces of clothing. As a result, the garments canbe used for not only pre-exercise and post-exercise treatments, but alsocan be used during exercise. It will be appreciated that this type ofmotor is not a limitation on the present invention. Any type of motorthat provides the desired vibration or amplitude is within the scope ofthe present invention. For example, the motor can include anelectromagnet coil through which a shaft extends and where the shaftreciprocates (is pushed and pulled) as a result of the magnetic fieldproduced by the coil. The shaft can include some type of member orportion thereon that provides the vibration or percussion on thewearer’s skin.

The elastic, compressive fabric or wrap portion can be made of, e.g.,nylon, spandex, neoprene or other flexible fabric or material. Thegarment or wrap portion can include multiple fabric layers, for example,inner and outer layers to accommodate or house the components (e.g., theactuator and sensor layer(s)) and provide a space or pathways for theelectronics and circuit boards. The fabric may also include breathableareas as well as sealed sections to waterproof cabling and electronics.

In a preferred embodiment, the wrap assembly includes wirelesscommunication (e.g., Bluetooth) so that it can communicate with asoftware application on a mobile device, such as a phone to provide a“smart” garment system. The wireless communication device can be housedon a PCB that is also in electrical and/or data communication with thevibration devices, temperature control modules, main control module orthe like.

In another preferred embodiment, the garment assembly includestemperature control or modulation. In particular, the garment assemblycan include temperature control modules that may be permanent orremovable.

The wearable device or garment assembly can include temperaturemodulation and application, for example, via temperature control modulespositioned thereon or integrated therein. The garment assembly caninclude both vibration and heat/cold or can include one or the other. Ina preferred embodiment, the wrap portion includes a magnet positionedthereon or therein. At at least some locations on the garment portion,temperature control modules can be secured to the magnets. Temperaturecontrol modules can be disposed throughout the garment assembly. In apreferred embodiment, there is no garment or fabric layer between thetemperature control module and the user’s skin. Instead, the bottomlayer or surface of the temperature control module or some other heatconductive portion or material contacts the user’s skin.

In a preferred embodiment, the temperature control module includes afan, a heat sink and a peltier module or device that are containedwithin the module housing. In this embodiment, the temperature controlmodule includes a magnet on the bottom thereof that can be magneticallyconnected or secured to a magnet on or in the fabric portion or garmentportion of the garment assembly. A frame (e.g., plastic frame) can beembedded in or attached to the garment portion for helping withconnection of the temperature control module.

In a preferred embodiment, the magnet to magnet system secures thetemperature control module to the wrap or garment portion and transfersor conducts the heat or cold from the module to the user’s skin as themagnets are preferably made of a heat and/or cold conductive material.In an embodiment, the wrap assembly can include a flexible heat or coldconductive members, such as a band, patch or the like (e.g., made ofcopper or aluminum) to help transfer heat or cold to increase theeffective area of the heat/cold treatment. The heat conductive membersare preferably in contact with or connected to the magnet so that theheat or cold is conducted from the magnet and through the heatconductive member.

In an embodiment with a number of connecting magnets in differentlocations, the user is provided with a plurality of options for where toposition one or more temperature control modules. For example, if theuser has a right shoulder issue they are treating, they may only placeone or more temperature control modules in that location. At a latertime they can use the same shirt to treat an abdominal issue. Thevibration devices may be embedded in the garment portion (e.g., betweeninner and outer fabric layers) and can be arranged around the magnetssuch that temperature control modules can be connected to the magnetabove and below the knee cap. This is just an example and any pattern ornumber of vibration devices and temperature control modules can beutilized. It will be appreciated that any configuration of vibrationdevices is within the scope of the present invention. The vibrationdevices can be configured to treat certain issues and can be placed inpatterns around the sleeve or wrap, such as a triangle, star, circle,spiral, other pattern, etc. and can increase blood flow and providetherapeutic benefit as desired.

In a preferred embodiment, the garment assembly includes a plurality ofmagnets that may be overlapping or a single magnet with a plurality oflocations where the magnet on the temperature control modules can beplaced in order to allow the temperature control modules to be movableor positionable within the same general area. This allows the user tomove the module to the exact location of the issue. It also allows asingle garment size to be usable by different uses (because no twobodies are exactly the same). In another embodiment, the majority of orall of the garment can be magnetized, thus allowing the module to attachanywhere.

In a preferred embodiment, the invention includes a smart vibrationsystem. It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the artthat at a certain frequency (depending on the mass attached to thesystem), vibrations can make a user’s body resonate and thereforeincrease the amplitude of the perceived vibration. To take advantage ofthis resonant frequency principle (which is different from person toperson and from body part to body part), the present invention mayinclude a closed loop system with sensors that scan through thedifferent speeds of the vibration devices or motors until the resonantfrequency is found. This may be accomplished by adding accelerometersnear the motor locations that can measure the actual vibration it isbeing generated when the motor is attached to the body part. In anexemplary embodiment, strain gages that can measure displacement of thegarment are included in the location of the motor.

In a preferred embodiment, the garment assembly is washable and includesat least some components that are embedded in, attached to, etc.permanently in the garment (e.g., waterproof enclosed motors, cabling,etc) and other components that are removable (battery pack, PCB). Thepermanent components are preferably sealed in the garment (e.g., betweengarment layers and the user can wash the garment after removing thepower unit system (battery pack, PCB, etc.).

In another preferred embodiment, the garment assembly can be a wrap orstrap garment assembly that includes a heating/cooling system andlocalized vibration. In a preferred embodiment, the garment assembly isincorporated in a compression wrap. One or more of the layers of thedevice can include vibration capability. The temperature control modulesmay or may not contain an integrated battery (i.e., within the module).The modules can be removed from the strap device and placed in differentcavities in the strap assembly depending on the desired treatment.

The temperature control modules may be different sizes depending on themuscle group or the surface area desired be treated. The device (orseparate devices) may also include different sized and shaped straps toaccommodate different body parts.

The wrap assembly may be embodied in a wrist and/or knee strap assembly.In a preferred embodiment, the wrap portion may include positions orcavities defined therein that are each configured to receive atemperature control module. The main controller can be electricallyconnected to and in data communication with the temperature controlmodules so that the modules are powered and can be controlled by thecontroller. The wiring can be embedded in the main body portion andplugs or jacks can be used for attaching and detaching the electricalconnections. The wiring can also be external. Wireless connectivitybetween any and/or all components can also be included. In anotherembodiment, a battery can be located in the module, thus making eachmodule independent and interchangeable such that it can be simply placedin the cavity or a strap garment assembly or secured via a magnet orother attachment mechanism to a “wearable” garment assembly.

In a preferred embodiment, the module housing includes a groovetherearound that receives a portion of the wrap portion so that it canbe positioned in the cavity (or module seat). It will be appreciatedthat the wrap portion is made of a material that is pliable and flexibleenough to allow the modules to be inserted into the cavities and removedtherefrom (e.g., pressed into place and removed therefrom). Inembodiments with larger and smaller modules, the one or more largermodules are the main heat or cold provider (to the user). The heat ispreferably conducted outwardly from the larger module. The smallermodules can be used to provide extra heat or cold where it is difficultto conduct the heat from the larger module. In a preferred embodiment,the main body portion and/or straps include heat conductive materialtherein or thereon.

In an embodiment, the wrap assembly may include different sized modules,such as one larger module and several smaller modules. Some or all ofthe temperature control modules may also include vibration devices ormotors therein (e.g., inside the housing). In another embodiment, one ormore vibrating devices can be placed on or in the heat sink. Vibrationdevices can also be included embedded in the main body portion or strapportions. It will be appreciated that any and all of the embodimentsdiscussed or disclosed herein and any of the components or conceptsincluded in the embodiments are all completely interchangeable,swappable and usable together. It will be appreciated that strapassemblies or wrap portions can be configured to fit any body part ormultiple body parts, e.g., shoulder, back, knee, elbow, wrist, neck,ankle, etc.

in a preferred embodiment, the temperature control module May include aconcave module structure or bottom surface so that it can adapt to thecontour of different portions of the body, such as the thigh, calf,Shin, etc. In a preferred embodiment, the temperature control modulealso includes a fan bracket and a peltier housing that includes an upperhousing portion that houses the peltier device and a lower housingportion that houses the vibration device and a PCB. Preferably, themodule housing includes a lower portion that includes the concavesurface on a bottom thereof. The lower portion also includes aconductive member that conducts heat or cold from the peltier device tothe concave bottom surface. The upper and lower housing portions of thepeltier housing define a vibration device recess. All temperaturecontrol modules herein include vents or openings in the module housingto allow heat to be dissipated therefrom. It will be appreciated thatthe straps can be include Velcro or the like for securement.

In a preferred embodiment, the main control module or assembly includesa plurality of buttons and/or switches thereon for controlling thetemperature control modules and/or vibration devices. For example, thebuttons can control turning the device on and off, cooling and heating,time or duration, changing modes, controlling the vibration devices andturning them on and/or off for various body parts. LED lights can alsobe included as charging or time indicators. Some of the features arecontrolled by multiple pushes of the associated button. In an exemplaryembodiment, the buttons may work as follows. Pushing the mode button maycycle through the following vibration patterns - constant, wave,regular, wave, off. The cold button - one press for 5° C. control, twopresses for 10° C. control, three presses for unlimited control and fourpresses to turn off. The hot button -one press for 38° C. control, twopresses for 40° C. control, three presses for 42° and four presses toturn off. The time button - power on sets the time to 15 minutes, onepress sets to 30 minutes, two presses sets to 60 minutes, third pressfor unlimited time.

One of the advantages of the present invention is the ability to provideflexibility so that the modules can be used on, for example, strapdevices and garment or wearable devices. Mounting the modules on strapdevices provides high performance and efficacy. The strap allows formultiple modules to work together and treat a wide area. Mounting themodules on a wearable device (e.g., shirt, pants, shorts, etc.) providesthe user with the a vibration garment and the flexibility of addingtemperature control modules when desired.

It will be appreciated that the wrap assembly in a nutshell is a batterypowered wearable that can replace ice packs and is shaped to treat bodyparts such as the shoulder and upper back. The assembly can also be usedfor heat therapy and may have several vibration motors embedded in thestrap or garment to boost blood flow and recovery. In a preferredembodiment, the shoulder strap assembly includes a removable battery, atleast three (and possible more) temperature control modules, eight totwelve modules (can include more or less) vibration motors in thegarment or strap. Preferably, the motors are divided into groups ofthree and the speed or on and off of the groups can be controlledindependently. Preferably, the device also includes Bluetoothconnectivity that allows it to be connected to an app on a mobiledevice. Exemplary use cases for athletes and non-athletes include postshoulder surgery treatment, post work-out recovery, and users withchronic shoulder, neck and upper back pain.

It will be appreciated that the body parts that the strap assemblies maybe used on include curved surfaces. In a preferred embodiment, thetemperature control module includes extension members or fingerspreaders that essentially increase the footprint of the cooling/heatingmodules and allow the invention to distribute the desired temperaturearound curved areas in the body (e.g., calf, thigh, shoulder,trapezoid). In an exemplary embodiment, the finger spreaders allowtreatment area to extend around a curved surface.

In a preferred embodiment, the temperature control module includesmodular extension legs, extension members or spreaders made of, e.g.,stacks of thin copper. The spreaders can be divided into smaller fingersto add flexibility in the perpendicular direction and help adapting tothe body. The spreaders can be attached to the main plate under theprimary spreader by different methods, such as bolted (or other threadedreceiver), riveted, hinged, welded, etc.

Vibration motors can be included in the strap, garment portion, withinthe housing or on the spreaders. The spreaders, spreader members, fingerspreaders, legs or extension members can be made of aluminum or anothermetal and the pivot points or the like of the spreaders can be made ofcopper or other metal.

In a preferred embodiment, the spreaders 42 can be enclosed or sewn intothe garment portion. The fabric or strap is preferably on top of thespreader, thereby allowing the bottom surface of the spreader to touchthe skin of the user. In this embodiment, when the strap or garmentportion is wrapped around the body part (e.g., leg), the spreaders 94will be moved or pivoted by the fabric to help the spreaders move closerto or against the leg. The user can also push the spreaders through thefabric to help the spreader to the desired position.

In a preferred embodiment, the spreader member and/or finger spreaderscan include a plurality of metallic layers. In such an embodiment, thincopper layers (e.g., die cut layers) are stacked on one another and formthe separate primary spreader member and extension legs or fingerspreaders. The extension legs can be pivotable with respect to theprimary spreader or they may not be. Therefore, by creating the thinlayers, the desired shape (depending on the body part targeted) can becreated. The stack of layers can include layers of aluminum or thickercopper above and below in the areas were rigidity needs to be increased.Also, the copper layers can be formed in different shapes to adaptexactly to the geometry of the muscle(s) to be treated.

Any type of attachment system that can be used to secure the garmentassembly to the user’s leg or other body part is within the scope of thepresent invention. The attachment system may include a magneticsecurement and adjustment system therein. The attachment system Mayinclude a mechanical latch or securement system and magnets for aligningthe components to make connection easier. For example, a Fidlockmagnetic buckle or system can be used.

In a preferred embodiment, the wrap assembly includes one or more pillowor cushion members on the inside of the wrap portion, which providecomfort for the user and may also be removable so that they can bewashed or replaced. The cushion members may include magnets or otherattachment mechanism (velcro, snaps, buttons, etc.) so that the cushionmembers can be secured or removably attached to the wrap portion. Upperand lower or first and second cushion portions can be included for theupper and lower portions. The cushion members provide a layer generallyparallel to the thermal spreader surface that improves comfort and maybe a layer that is sacrificed or replaced due to the buildup of sweatand moisture over time. Any soft material is within the scope of theinvention. In a preferred embodiment, the cushion member includes amemory foam layer wrapped in a fabric enclosure. The magnets may beembedded in the memory foam or between layers (and a complementarymagnet is included in the wrap portion). The thickness is selected toprovide comfort while allowing the vibration motors to contact theuser’s skin.

The wrap assembly may include a mounting skirt and/or mounting memberfor mounting or otherwise attaching the temperature control modulesand/or main control module to the wrap portion (e.g., by sewing). Adonut or ring member may be positioned around the knee or centralopening and helps align the wrap assembly on the user’s knee cap whenworn. The ring member is preferably semi-rigid to rigid and allows theknee cap of the user to at least partially extend therethrough to helpsupport the wrap assembly on the user’s leg and to help prevent thestrap from sliding down the user’s leg. Preferably the ring member ismade of a plastic material so that it is rigid for support, but somewhatflexible so it can move and bend when the user bends their knee. Thewrap portion preferably includes inner and outer layers so that some ofthe components (e.g., wiring, the donut for the central opening, etc.)can be sandwiched therebetween.

It will be appreciated that any type of system for holding thetemperature control modules in place on a body part is within the scopeof the present invention. Any type of straps, clamps, buckles and thelike or combination thereof is within the scope of the presentinvention. Furthermore, the wrap portion or fabric portion of theassembly can be modified or changed to make the product smaller,streamlined or generally of a lighter weight. In a preferred embodiment,any portion or all of the wrap assembly/fabric portion can include, becomprised of, include a layer of or use a far infrared or FIR fabric.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention may be more readily understood by referring to theaccompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a temperature controllable wrap assemblysecured on a user’s leg in accordance with a preferred embodiment of thepresent invention attached thereto;

FIG. 2 is a front elevational view of the temperature controllable wrapassembly of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of the temperature controllable wrapassembly of FIG. 1 in the open position;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a temperature control module inaccordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the temperature control module;

FIG. 6 is a an exploded perspective view of the temperature controlmodule;

FIG. 7 is a rear elevational view of the temperature controllable wrapassembly of FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 8 is a rear perspective view of the temperature controllable wrapassembly of FIG. 1 in the open position;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a spreader member with a thermistorexploded therefrom; and

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the spreader member and thermistor.

Like numerals refer to like parts throughout the several views of thedrawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The following description and drawings are illustrative and are not tobe construed as limiting. Numerous specific details are described toprovide a thorough understanding of the disclosure. However, in certaininstances, well-known or conventional details are not described in orderto avoid obscuring the description. References to one or an embodimentin the present disclosure can be, but not necessarily are references tothe same embodiment; and, such references mean at least one of theembodiments. If a component is not shown in a drawing then this providessupport for a negative limitation in the claims stating that thatcomponent is “not” present. However, the above statement is not limitingand in another embodiment, the missing component can be included in aclaimed embodiment.

Reference in this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “apreferred embodiment” or any other phrase mentioning the word“embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, orcharacteristic described in connection with the embodiment is includedin at least one embodiment of the-disclosure and also means that anyparticular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connectionwith one embodiment can be included in any embodiment or can be omittedor excluded from any embodiment. The appearances of the phrase “in oneembodiment” in various places in the specification are not necessarilyall referring to the same embodiment, nor are separate or alternativeembodiments mutually exclusive of other embodiments. Moreover, variousfeatures are described which may be exhibited by some embodiments andnot by others and may be omitted from any embodiment. Furthermore, anyparticular feature, structure, or characteristic described herein may beoptional. Similarly, various requirements are described which may berequirements for some embodiments but not other embodiments. Whereappropriate any of the features discussed herein in relation to oneaspect or embodiment of the invention may be applied to another aspector embodiment of the invention. Similarly, where appropriate any of thefeatures discussed herein in relation to one aspect or embodiment of theinvention may be optional with respect to and/or omitted from thataspect or embodiment of the invention or any other aspect or embodimentof the invention discussed or disclosed herein.

The terms used in this specification generally have their ordinarymeanings in the art, within the context of the disclosure, and in thespecific context where each term is used. Certain terms that are used todescribe the disclosure are discussed below, or elsewhere in thespecification, to provide additional guidance to the practitionerregarding the description of the disclosure. For convenience, certainterms may be highlighted, for example using italics and/or quotationmarks: The use of highlighting has no influence on the scope and meaningof a term; the scope and meaning of a term is the same, in the samecontext, whether or not it is highlighted.

It will be appreciated that the same thing can be said in more than oneway. Consequently, alternative language and synonyms may be used for anyone or more of the terms discussed herein. No special significance is tobe placed upon whether or not a term is elaborated or discussed herein.Synonyms for certain terms are provided. A recital of one or moresynonyms does not exclude the use of other synonyms. The use of examplesanywhere in this specification including examples of any terms discussedherein is illustrative only, and is not intended to further limit thescope and meaning of the disclosure or of any exemplified term.Likewise, the disclosure is not limited to various embodiments given inthis specification.

Without intent to further limit the scope of the disclosure, examples ofinstruments, apparatus, methods and their related results according tothe embodiments of the present disclosure are given below. Note thattitles or subtitles may be used in the examples for convenience of areader, which in no way should limit the scope of the disclosure. Unlessotherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein havethe same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in theart to which this disclosure pertains. In the case of conflict, thepresent document, including definitions, will control.

It will be appreciated that terms such as “front,” “back,” “top,”“bottom,” “side,” “short,” “long,” “up,” “down,” “aft,” “forward,”“inboard,” “outboard” and “below” used herein are merely for ease ofdescription and refer to the orientation of the components as shown inthe figures. It should be understood that any orientation of thecomponents described herein is within the scope of the presentinvention.

Described herein and shown in FIGS. 1-10 is a temperature controllablewrap assembly 10 that preferably includes temperature control andvibration therapy integrated therein. FIGS. 1-10 show the garmentassembly embodied in a closeable sleeve or wrap that is configured to beused on a wearer’s knee. However, it will be appreciated that this isnot a limitation on the present invention and the wrap assembly 10 canbe any type of wearable garment, wrap or strap that includes thetemperature control modules disclosed herein.

As shown in FIG. 1 , in a preferred embodiment, the temperaturecontrollable wrap assembly 10 includes a garment or wrap portion 12configured to be worn around a user’s leg, a plurality of temperaturecontrol modules 14 positioned on or extending through the wrap portion12, a central opening 16, and a main control module 18. As shown inFIGS. 2 and 3 , in a preferred embodiment, the wrap portion 12 includesa lower portion 20, an upper portion 22 and a knee portion 24 extendingbetween the lower portion 20 and the upper portion 22. Preferably, thecentral opening 16 is at least partially defined in or through the kneeportion 24.

In a preferred embodiment, the temperature control modules 14 aremounted in retention openings 26 defined in the wrap portion 12 (whichmay include one or more layers). As shown in FIG. 2 , in a preferredembodiment, two temperature control modules 14 and the main controlmodule 18 are positioned on the upper portion 22 and two temperaturecontrol modules 14 are positioned on the lower portion 20. In apreferred embodiment, strap portions 28 extend outwardly from the upperand lower leg portions. Preferably, one of the strap portions 28includes a handle 29 for pulling the strap portion to provide thedesired amount of tension and securing to the strap portion on the otherside. Preferably, the strap portions 28 include hook and loop material30 (Velcro) thereon so that the temperature controllable wrap assembly10 can be secured around the user’s leg. As shown in FIG. 2 , the wrapportion 12 can also include secondary straps 31 that provide the abilityto further tighten the straps on one side to the Velcro strap on theother side. any arrangement of hook material on one strap and loopmaterial on another strap is within the scope of the present inventionto allow the strap portions 28 and secondary straps 31 to work is withinthe scope of the present invention. In another embodiment, the strapportions can be omitted and the wrap portion can be a closed sleeve thatis stretchable to fit over the user’s leg. It will be appreciated thatany type of system for holding the temperature control modules in placeon a body part is within the scope of the present invention. Any type ofstraps, clamps, buckles and the like or combination thereof is withinthe scope of the present invention.

FIGS. 4-6 show a temperature control module 14. In a preferredembodiment, the temperature control module 14 includes a housing 32, afan 34, a heat sink 36, a thermoelectric cooler, peltier device orcontrollable temperature element 38, a spreader plate or member 40 and aplurality of finger spreaders 42 that are pivotably attached to thespreader member 40. In a preferred embodiment, the housing 32 includesan upper portion 44 and a lower portion 46. In use, the lower surface 40a of the spreader member 40 and the inner or lower surface 42 a arepositioned to contact and transfer thermal energy (hot or cold) to theuser’s body part. As discussed above and herein, the lower surface ofthe controllable temperature element 38 is configured to transferthermal energy to the upper surface of the spreader member 40 and heatsink 36 is configured to pull heat from the upper surface of thecontrollable temperature element 38. The fan 34 helps dissipate heatfrom the heat sink 36 and other components. In use, the primary spreadermember 40 is cooled or heated by the controllable temperature element 38and the heat or cold is conducted from the primary spreader 40 to thefinger spreaders 42. In a preferred embodiment, the temperature controlmodule 14 also includes a PCB 48 for electrical and data communication(with the main control module 18 or other controller) and controllingthe module.

In a preferred embodiment, the spreader member 40 is configured toconduct thermal energy to the finger spreaders 42. The spreader member40 includes first and second opposing edges 40 b and 40 c and third andfourth opposing edges 40 d and 40 e. In a preferred embodiment, fingerspreaders 42 extend from and/or past a plurality of the outer edges ofthe spreader member. For example, as shown in FIG. 6 , three fingerspreaders 42 extend from the first edge 40 b and one finger spreaderextends from the third edge 40 d. In another embodiment, one or morefinger spreaders can extend from all or three edges.

Any type of pivotable connection between the finger spreaders and thespreader member is within the scope of the present invention. In apreferred embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 , the finger spreaders42 are hingedly attached to the spreader member 40. To provide thehinged connection, the spreader member 40 includes one or more knuckleportions 50 and the finger spreaders 42 include a pin portion 52 that isreceived in the knuckle portion 50. The contact portion 54 of the fingerspreader 42 extends outside of knuckle portion 50 and the pin portion 52is rotatable within the knuckle portion 50. FIG. 5 shows the fingerspreader 42 in a first position in solid lines and a second position indashed lines. In a preferred embodiment, in at least the secondposition, a distal end 42 a of the finger spreader(s) 42 is positionedbelow the lower surface 40 a of the spreader member 40.

In a preferred embodiment, the knuckle portion 50 includes upper andlower stop members 51 and 53 that include a pivot space 55 therebetween(see FIG. 9 ). The finger spreaders 42 are pivotable within the pivotspace 55 and between the upper and lower stop members 51 and 53. Theupper and lower stop members 51 and 53 define the upper and lower limitsof the pivot angle of the finger spreaders. FIG. 5 shows the fingerspreader 42 in the first position in solid lines and with the uppersurface against the upper stop member 51 and in the second position indashed lines with the lower surface against the lower stop member 53.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 7 , in a preferred embodiment, the temperaturecontrol module 14 includes a pad member 57 that at least partiallycovers the spreader member 40 and allows the contact portion 59 of thespreader member 42 to extend there around (see FIG. 7 ). The pad member57 can be included to improve comfort. For example, it can be made of asoft material, such as TPE rubber or other rubber and overmolded ontothe plastic lower portion of the housing.

It will be appreciated that in wrap assemblies for different portions ofthe body, different numbers of finger spreaders can be used in differentplaces or extending from different sides of the main spreader member 40in order to accommodate different portions, parts or shapes of the humananatomy. For example, as shown in FIG. 7 , each of the temperaturecontrol modules 14 include three finger spreaders 42 extending outwardlytherefrom and in a generally circumferential direction around the user’sleg when the wrap assembly 10 is secured to a user’s leg (they adapt toand are secured against the user’s quadricep and calf) and one fingerspreader 42 extending upwardly or downwardly toward the user’s knee cap,such that they surround the knee cap when the wrap assembly is securedto the user’s leg. The separate finger spreaders 42 provide flexibilityto adapt to different sized user’s body parts and geometries. When thewrap portion 12 is wrapped around the user’s leg, the lower or innersurface of the wrap portion 12 contacts the upper surface of the fingerspreader 42 and pivots the finger spreader 42 into contact with theuser’s skin.

As shown in FIG. 5 , in a preferred embodiment, the wrap portion 12 issandwiched between the upper portion 44 and the lower portion 46 of thehousing 32. Preferably, the lower portion 46 includes a plurality ofspike members 59 that engage the wrap portion 12 and help hold thetemperature control module 14 on the wrap portion 12. As shown in FIG. 6, the lower portion 46 also includes rails 61 that contain the ends ofthe PCB 48. The lower portion 46 also includes knuckle portion recesses63 in which the knuckle portions 50 of the spreader member 40 isreceived. Preferably, registration members 65 extend upwardly from theupper surface of the spreader member 40 and are received in registrationopenings 67 defined in the lower portion 46 of the housing 32.

As shown in FIGS. 7-8 , the wrap assembly 10 includes temperaturecontrol modules 14 on opposite sides that include finger spreaders 42extending outwardly in generally opposite directions (the three fingerspreaders). It will be appreciated that because the finger spreaders arepivotable, they do not always extend or point in the same direction.Therefore, it should be understood by a person of ordinary skill in theart that, as shown in FIG. 7 , three finger spreaders extend outwardlyto the left and three finger spreaders extend outwardly to the right,but are not exactly 180° opposite to one another. And, anywhere withintheir range of pivotable motion, the three finger spreaders on the leftstill extend outwardly to the left and the three finger spreaders on theright still extend outwardly to the right. These arrangements meet thedefinition of generally outwardly and generally opposite from oneanother or in generally opposite directions. The finger spreaders 42 areeach pivotable or movable along a pivot axis A1 (see FIG. 5 ) so thatthe bottom or contact surface of the finger spreader 42 is against thedesired body part. It will be appreciated that in an embodiment with aplurality of finger spreaders 42, each of the finger spreaders 42 canindividually be pivoted, moved or bent to provide further flexibility tomake contact with a user’s skin and to distribute the heat or cold.

As shown in FIGS. 7-8 , in a preferred embodiment, the wrap assembly 10also includes a plurality of vibration motors or devices 70 disposed inor on the wrap portion 12 and or the strap portions 28. FIGS. 7-8 showthe vibration devices 70 in hidden lines, with one vibration device 70in FIG. 7 exploded out therefrom to show an exemplary type of vibrationdevice used therein. In a preferred embodiment, the vibration devicesare located outside of the temperature control modules 14. In otherwords, the wrap portion 12 comprises a center axis A2 that extendsbetween the temperature control modules 14 on either side. Thetemperature control modules 14 on the left are positioned between thevibration device(s) 70 on the left and the center axis and thetemperature control modules 14 on the right are positioned between thevibration device(s) 70 on the right and the center axis.

As shown in FIGS. 9-10 , in a preferred embodiment, a thermistor 60 orother temperature measurement device or sensor is positioned or embeddedunderneath the controllable temperature element 38 and preferablyadjacent to the center of the controllable temperature element 38. FIG.9 shows the thermistor 60 exploded from a thermistor opening 62 definedin the controllable temperature element 38. The thermistor 38 is incommunication with the control system/main control module 18 (see wire64, which extends through groove 66 defined in the upper surface of thespreader member 40) and contributes to the control of the temperature ofthe spreader member 40 and the temperature of the lower surface 40 athat is against the user’s skin. Positioning the thermistor 38 at ornear the center of the spreader member 40 and/or controllabletemperature element 38 allows monitoring of the hottest and coldestpoints at all times, thus increasing the accuracy of the control systemand avoiding the spreader member 40 from becoming too hot or too coldand causing damage to the skin. FIG. 10 shows the thermistor 38 embeddedin a material (epoxy, glue or other material) in thermistor opening 62.

As shown in FIGS. 1-3 , the main control module 18 includes a pluralityof buttons/switches 56 for controlling the wrap assembly 10. The maincontrol module 18 is in electrical communication with the temperaturecontrol modules 14. In the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , themain control module 18 includes four buttons for controlling, from leftto right, vibration, heat, cold and on/off. Shown below the vibration,heat and cold buttons are three LED lights for each. These representdifferent levels of vibration, heat and cold intensity when the buttonsare pushed multiple times. In a preferred embodiment, the main controlmodule 18 includes a removable battery module 58, as shown explodedoutwardly in FIG. 3 . Preferably, the battery module 58 can be pushedfrom one side (the opposite side in FIG. 3 , as shown in FIG. 1 ) sothat the battery module 144 slides out of the battery opening 58 adefined in the main control module 18. The battery module 58 or maincontrol module can include lights (e.g., LEDs) thereon that show theamount of charge remaining in the battery. In a preferred embodiment,the battery module 144 is magnetically secured within the batteryopening 58 a in the main control module and pushing the battery modulewith a predetermined amount of force overcomes the magnetic force soremove the battery module from the main control module.

In a preferred embodiment, the wrap assembly 10 includes a donut or ringmember 72 positioned around the central opening 16. The ring member 16may be embedded in the wrap portion 12 and preferably helps align thewrap assembly on the user’s knee cap when worn.

Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout thedescription and the claims, the words “comprise,” “comprising,” and thelike are to be construed in an inclusive sense, as opposed to anexclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of“including, but not limited to.” As used herein, the terms “connected,”“coupled,” or any variant thereof, means any connection or coupling,either direct or indirect, between two or more elements; the coupling ofconnection between the elements can be physical, logical, or acombination thereof. Additionally, the words “herein,” “above,” “below,”and words of similar import, when used in this application, shall referto this application as a whole and not to any particular portions ofthis application. Where the context permits, words in the above DetailedDescription of the Preferred Embodiments using the singular or pluralnumber may also include the plural or singular number respectively. Theword “or” in reference to a list of two or more items, covers all of thefollowing interpretations of the word: any of the items in the list, allof the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list.

The above-detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure is notintended to be exhaustive or to limit the teachings to the precise formdisclosed above. While specific embodiments of and examples for thedisclosure are described above for illustrative purposes, variousequivalent modifications are possible within the scope of thedisclosure, as those skilled in the relevant art will recognize.Further, any specific numbers noted herein are only examples:alternative implementations may employ differing values, measurements orranges.

Although the operations of any method(s) disclosed or described hereineither explicitly or implicitly are shown and described in a particularorder, the order of the operations of each method may be altered so thatcertain operations may be performed in an inverse order or so thatcertain operations may be performed, at least in part, concurrently withother operations. In another embodiment, instructions or sub-operationsof distinct operations may be implemented in an intermittent and/oralternating manner.

The teachings of the disclosure provided herein can be applied to othersystems, not necessarily the system described above. The elements andacts of the various embodiments described above can be combined toprovide further embodiments. Any measurements or dimensions described orused herein are merely exemplary and not a limitation on the presentinvention. Other measurements or dimensions are within the scope of theinvention.

Any patents and applications and other references noted above, includingany that may be listed in accompanying filing papers, are incorporatedherein by reference in their entirety. Aspects of the disclosure can bemodified, if necessary, to employ the systems, functions, and conceptsof the various references described above to provide yet furtherembodiments of the disclosure.

These and other changes can be made to the disclosure in light of theabove Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments. While the abovedescription describes certain embodiments of the disclosure, anddescribes the best mode contemplated, no matter how detailed the aboveappears in text, the teachings can be practiced in many ways. Details ofthe system may vary considerably in its implementation details, whilestill being encompassed by the subject matter disclosed herein. As notedabove, particular terminology used when describing certain features oraspects of the disclosure should not be taken to imply that theterminology is being redefined herein to be restricted to any specificcharacteristics, features or aspects of the disclosure with which thatterminology is associated. In general, the terms used in the followingclaims should not be construed to limit the disclosures to the specificembodiments disclosed in the specification unless the above DetailedDescription of the Preferred Embodiments section explicitly defines suchterms. Accordingly, the actual scope of the disclosure encompasses notonly the disclosed embodiments, but also all equivalent ways ofpracticing or implementing the disclosure under the claims.

While certain aspects of the disclosure are presented below in certainclaim forms, the inventors contemplate the various aspects of thedisclosure in any number of claim forms. For example, while only oneaspect of the disclosure is recited as a means-plus-function claim under35 U.S.C. §112, ¶6, other aspects may likewise be embodied as ameans-plus-function claim, or in other forms, such as being embodied ina computer-readable medium. (Any claims intended to be treated under 35U.S.C. §112, ¶6 will include the words “means for”). Accordingly, theapplicant reserves the right to add additional claims after filing theapplication to pursue such additional claim forms for other aspects ofthe disclosure.

Accordingly, although exemplary embodiments of the invention have beenshown and described, it is to be understood that all the terms usedherein are descriptive rather than limiting, and that many changes,modifications, and substitutions may be made by one having ordinaryskill in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of theinvention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A temperature controllable wrap assemblycomprising: a wrap portion configured to be worn around a user’s bodypart; a first temperature control module positioned on the wrap portion,wherein the first temperature control module includes: a housing; acontrollable temperature element; a spreader member; a sensor embeddedin the spreader member; and a first finger spreader pivotably attachedto the spreader member, wherein a lower surface of the spreader memberis positioned to contact the user’s body part, wherein the controllabletemperature element is configured to transfer thermal energy to an uppersurface of the spreader member, and wherein the spreader member isconfigured to conduct the thermal energy to the first finger spreader;and a main control module in electrical communication with the firsttemperature control module, wherein the main control module includes abattery.
 2. The temperature controllable wrap assembly of claim 1,wherein the lower surface of the spreader member is curved.
 3. Thetemperature controllable wrap assembly of claim 1, wherein the firstfinger spreader is pivotable between a first position and a secondposition, wherein in the second position a distal end of the firstfinger spreader is positioned below the lower surface of the spreadermember.
 4. The temperature controllable wrap assembly of claim 3,wherein the spreader member includes a knuckle portion, wherein thefirst finger spreader includes a pin portion that is received in theknuckle portion, and wherein the pin portion is rotatable within theknuckle portion.
 5. The temperature controllable wrap assembly of claim1, further comprising: a second temperature control module positioned onthe wrap portion, wherein the second temperature control moduleincludes: a housing; a controllable temperature element; a spreadermember; and a second finger spreader pivotably attached to the spreadermember of the second temperature control module, wherein a lower surfaceof the spreader member of the second temperature control module ispositioned to contact the user’s body part, wherein the controllabletemperature element of the second temperature control module isconfigured to transfer thermal energy to an upper surface of thespreader member of the second temperature control module, wherein thespreader member of the second temperature control module is configuredto conduct the thermal energy to the second finger spreader, wherein thefirst finger spreader extends outwardly in a first direction, andwherein the second finger spreader extends outwardly in a seconddirection, and wherein the first direction is generally opposite of thesecond direction.
 6. The temperature controllable wrap assembly of claim5, further comprising a vibration device embedded in the wrap portion.7. The temperature controllable wrap assembly of claim 5, furthercomprising first and second vibration devices embedded in the wrapportion, wherein the wrap portion comprises a center axis that extendsbetween the first and second temperature control modules, wherein thefirst temperature control module is positioned between the firstvibration device and the center axis and the second temperature controlmodule is positioned between the second vibration device and the centeraxis.
 8. The temperature controllable wrap assembly of claim 1, whereinthe sensor embedded in the spreader member comprises a thermistor. 9.The temperature controllable wrap assembly of claim 8, wherein thethermistor is received in a thermistor opening defined in the uppersurface of the spreader member, wherein a groove is defined in the uppersurface of the spreader member, and wherein a wire extends from thethermistor and through the groove.
 10. A temperature control modulecomprising: a housing; a controllable temperature element having a firstsurface and a second surface, wherein the first surface opposes thesecond surface; a heat sink positioned in the housing and in contactwith the first surface of the controllable temperature element; a fanpositioned in the housing and configured to direct heat away from theheat sink; a spreader member, wherein the controllable temperatureelement is configured to transfer thermal energy to an upper surface ofthe spreader member; a first finger spreader pivotably attached to thespreader member, wherein the spreader member is configured to conductthermal energy to the first finger spreader; and a second fingerspreader, wherein the first and second finger spreaders are pivotablewith respect to the housing and independently from one another.
 11. Thetemperature control module of claim 10, wherein the spreader memberincludes first and second opposing edges and third and fourth opposingedges, wherein the first finger spreader extends outwardly past thefirst opposing edge and the second finger spreader extends outwardlypast the third opposing edge such that the first and second fingerspreaders are perpendicular to one another.
 12. The temperature controlmodule of claim 10, wherein a lower surface of the spreader member iscurved.
 13. The temperature control module of claim 10, wherein thefirst finger spreader is pivotable between a first position and a secondposition, wherein in the second position a distal end of the firstfinger spreader is positioned below a lower surface of the spreadermember.
 14. The temperature control module of claim 13, wherein thespreader member includes a knuckle portion, wherein the first fingerspreader includes a pin portion that is received in the knuckle portion,and wherein the pin portion is rotatable within the knuckle portion. 15.The temperature control module of claim 10, wherein a thermistor isembedded in the spreader member.
 16. The temperature control module ofclaim 15, wherein the thermistor is received in a thermistor openingdefined in the upper surface of the spreader member, wherein a groove isdefined in the upper surface of the spreader member, and wherein a wireextends from the thermistor and through the groove.
 17. A temperaturecontrol module comprising: a housing; a controllable temperature elementhaving a first surface and a second surface, wherein the first surfaceopposes the second surface; a heat sink positioned in the housing and incontact with the first surface of the controllable temperature element;a fan positioned in the housing and configured to direct heat away fromthe heat sink; a spreader member, wherein the controllable temperatureelement is configured to transfer thermal energy to an upper surface ofthe spreader member, wherein a lower surface of the spreader member iscurved; a sensor embedded in the spreader member; and first and secondfinger spreaders pivotably attached to the spreader member, wherein thespreader member is configured to conduct thermal energy to the first andsecond finger spreaders, wherein the first and second finger spreadersare pivotable independently between a first position and a secondposition.
 18. The temperature control module of claim 17, wherein, inthe second position, distal ends of the first and second fingerspreaders are positioned below the lower surface of the spreader member,wherein the spreader member includes first and second opposing edges andthird and fourth opposing edges, wherein the first finger spreaderextends outwardly past the first opposing edge and the second fingerspreader extends outwardly past the third opposing edge such that thefirst and second finger spreaders are perpendicular to one another,wherein the spreader member includes a knuckle portion, wherein thefirst finger spreader includes a pin portion that is received in theknuckle portion, and wherein the pin portion is rotatable within theknuckle portion.
 19. The temperature control module of claim 17, whereinthe sensor embedded in the spreader member is a thermistor.
 20. Thetemperature control module of claim 17, wherein the controllabletemperature element is a thermoelectric cooler.